Some of the top teams in the state will be there. We're ready to run against some of those teams and assess where we're at as a team.

But I think this year's team is the closest thing we've had in terms of being a strong team and getting the program back to where it used to be.

In our first two meets this year, they've really set the tone for the entire team. They have a lot to do with why we've gotten off to a good start.

All 15 towns in the watershed that are up for new permits will get their new permits sometime in the coming year, hopefully by the spring. It will be interesting to see how many then ask for administrative law review.

We will continue to explore ways to reduce both mining and processing costs through increased efficiencies. We are extremely excited by the results we are seeing to date.

I feel confident, but always, you can't take anything for granted. It will be tough, but definitely doable.